How many kilometers should brake pads be used before they are scrapped?
4 Answers
The lifespan of brake pads is difficult to define with a specific mileage or time. The following situations indicate that brake pads need to be replaced: 1. Check the thickness: Normally, a brand-new set of brake pads is about 1.5cm thick. When the visible thickness is less than 0.5cm, it's time to prepare for replacement. Each brake pad also has a raised indicator on both sides, which is about 2-3mm thick. This is the minimum replacement limit for the brake disc. If the brake pad thickness is already level with this indicator, it must be replaced immediately. 2. Listen for sounds: If there is abnormal noise when lightly applying the brakes, the brake pads must be replaced immediately. This indicates that the limit indicators on both sides of the brake pads are already rubbing directly against the brake disc, proving the pads have exceeded their limit. 3. Feel the resistance: When braking, if you feel significant effort is required or a soft sensation, often needing to press the brake deeper to achieve the usual braking effect, or if the pedal position feels noticeably lower during emergency braking, it may mean the brake pads have largely lost their friction. In this case, they must be replaced immediately to avoid serious accidents.
I've been driving for decades and have seen many brake pad issues. The mileage isn't fixed—stop-and-go city traffic may wear them out by 30,000 km, while highway driving can extend their life to 60,000 km. It all depends on driving habits: frequent hard braking or carrying heavy loads accelerates wear. My old car needed replacements at 40,000 km on mountain roads due to constant braking. Check thickness during inspections—replace if under 3mm to avoid failure risks or strange noises. Have technicians inspect them during regular maintenance—safety first. Don’t wait until the last moment, or repair costs could double.
As a guy who frequently tinkers with my beloved car, I believe brake pad lifespan depends on material and driving conditions. Organic materials have poor wear resistance, typically lasting about 30,000 km; ceramic or semi-metallic types are more durable, reaching up to 70,000 km. Temperature plays a big role - wear accelerates in high-temperature regions. Vehicle type also matters, with SUVs consuming pads faster than sedans. Always pay attention to unusual noises or dashboard warning lights, as those are wear indicators signaling replacement. I personally check the thickness every 20,000 km to ensure safety. If neglected too long, it may damage the brake discs, leading to higher repair costs.
I haven't been driving for long, but my instructor repeatedly emphasized the importance of brake pads. There's no fixed mileage limit for replacement—it varies by driver. Generally, it's recommended to inspect and replace them every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. If you frequently encounter city traffic jams, they may need replacement sooner. Newer cars might have sensors—when the warning light comes on, head to the repair shop immediately. Ignoring it is dangerous, as it can lead to longer braking distances and accidents. I've developed a habit of checking the wheels every time I wash my car to ensure nothing looks abnormal. Simple maintenance can prevent major trouble.
